The Mountains of the Lake District
Mountains as far as the eye can see. No less than 7 out of the 10 highest peaks (mountains) in Denmark is found in the Lake District. The ’mountains’, known as The Seven Summits, are must-see places if you like a challenging hike and a truly wonderful view.
The Seven Summits
Himmelbjerget
Himmelbjerget certainly is worth a visit when you are in the Lake District. Enjoy the stunning view of Julsø lake and the magnificent landscape from the tower at its top and learn about the fascinating story of the origins of democracy. Himmelbjerget towers 147 m above sea level, and from the famous Himmelbjerget tower, you get the most amazing view of the surrounding landscape.
Ejer Bavnehøj and Møllehøj
Ejer Bavnehøj along with Møllehøj are the highest points in all of Denmark. From there, you can take in a magnificent view, in particular from the 12.5 m tower that was erected in 1924 in commemoration of the reunification of Southern Jutland with Denmark in 1920. On clear days, you can even see as far as to the island of Samsø and the bridge across Lillebælt more than 60 km away.
Yding Skovhøj
With its 170.77 m, Yding Skovhøj is the second highest natural point in Denmark. Just like Ejer Bavnehøj and Møllehøj, Yding Skovhøj is situated in Ejer Bjerge, and the mound is one of three found in Yding Skov. The other two mounds are a bit lower: The eastern mound measures 171.73 m and the western 171.41 m. Not far from Yding Skovhøj, you will find Sukkertoppen – a hill merely 105 m high, however, the view of the Lake District from there is magnificent.
Rye Sønderskov
Rye Sønderskov is covered by trees, and despite its 162.5 m, visitors here are few. Until recently, Rye Sønderskov was thought to be just 157 m high, but new digital measurings have shown that the place is actually quite a bit higher than previously assumed. This meant that Rye Sønderskov moved up a spot on the list of Denmark’s top-10 highest natural points and took 4th place instead of 3rd – and this way, it even surpassed Rytterknægten on the island of Bornholm.
Them Bavnehøj
With its 153 m, Them Bavnehøj used to function as a signalling mound. The signal came from a large fire on its top, warning people near and far that the enemy was approaching. This way, the army had time to prepare their defence of the country. Today, Them Bavnehøj is a great place to go for hikers, and on the top, you can even go up a small observation tower and this way be able to see even farther.
Sorring Loddenhøj
Sorring Loddenhøj mound sticks up 147 m in the Danish terrain, and the location of the mound indicates that it was established back in the Bronze Age. The area surrounding Sorring Loddenhøj has a large number of mounds, in fact, within a 1 km radius, more than 20 mounds are scattered in the landscape. You will know Sorring Loddenhøj mound because of the tall radio tower on its top. Nearby, you will find the town of Sorring, the town in all of Denmark that is situated at the highest point above sea level.
Brande Krat og andre høje bjerge
On the 10th place on the list of Denmark’s highest mountains, you will find Brande Krat south-west of Silkeborg with its 141 m. Sindbjerg and Stoubjerg are two more peaks in the Lake District – a beautiful natural resort with two heath-covered peaks in the moorland south-east of Silkeborg. Sindbjerg measures 103 m and Stoubjerg 99 m. From their tops, the view is endless of the long line of lakes from Silkeborg to Himmelbjerget.
Other Peaks in an Ice Age Landscape
The Hills of Gjern Bakker
Gjern Bakker is visibly marked by rivers of meltwater having flowed through there during the latest Ice Age. Gudenåen flows west of the hills, while the stream of Gjern Å runs south and east of them. Both streams give you a clear idea how large rivers of meltwater ran through this protected Natura 2000 area in ancient times.
Bryggerbjerg
You will pass the vantage point Bryggebjerg near Alling Vest when you hike along the Himmelbjergruten. From here, you have the most amazing view of Rosvig and Julsø, and in the far distance, you can see Himmelbjerget.
Sukkertoppen
Sukkertoppen is a 108 m hill and as such, nothing unusual – heightwise, that is. However, the view from the top is sure to take your breath away. From there, you can see a beautiful stretch of Gudenåen, Mossø lake, and the woodland surrounding Sukkertoppen. On its top, the remains of a Viking fortress have been discovered, which makes perfect sense, as the Vikings have been able to see their enemies approaching from afar from there.